Winter Speaker Series: Birding for Beginners

When: Tuesday, March 11. Doors open at 6:30PM. Presentation begins at 7PM.

Where: We’ll meet at the Palmer Train Depot in downtown Palmer.

Is registration required? No.

Join the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation and Revel for our fifth Winter Speakers Series event.

About the presentation: Justin Saunders is a life-long Mat-Su Valley resident and an avid birder. Come discover some fun tips on birding in the winter. Learn about some interesting winter species, great spots to look for winter birds, and local events that are sure to get you hooked on birds (if you aren't already).

About Justin: Late at night on December 28, 2012, a Boreal Owl in the Knik River Valley darted into a dense stand of white spruce seeking shelter from a howling chinook. Within the insulating bows, this bird chose for itself an unusual perch on a thick strap of nylon webbing. The webbing belonged to a hammock and the hammock belonged to a certain hiker who was now standing, stupefied, not 18 inches away from his new feathered guest. Several minutes later, the small bird traveled on, but not before completely altering someone's life forever. 

Justin Saunders is now an irredeemable birder who lives and works in the Mat-Su Valley. Though the winter days are shorter and colder, and many birds will not return to the Valley until spring, Justin asserts that winter birding is as cozy a thing as hot cocoa or wool socks. There are some incredible species that call the Valley home all year round and some great locations that are perfect for birds in the cold months. And don't miss the community birding events that are definitely worth circling on your calendar. Justin is happy to share how anyone can enjoy winter birding in the Mat-Su Valley.

Cost to attend: This event is free for the community to attend. Donations are greatly appreciated. If you would like to contribute to the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation, the organization will accept both electronic and cash donations at each speaker event. Donations are tax-deductible.